A feast for music lovers: Hindustani-inspired jazz performance in Bandra

Joshi (left) and Chakrvarty (centre) at a previous performance

In the world of music, some genres often seem like they are bound by the lines of tradition and convention. Hindustani classical music, carefully preserved by its purists and veterans; and jazz, whose traditions are upheld by aficionados that double up as custodians of the ‘essence' of the genre, are classic cases in point.

The Isheeta Chakrvarty quartet blurs these lines, seamlessly blending elements of the two genres to create a refreshing soundscape that stands out amidst modern remixes that are aptly termed ear sores by listeners. The band's discography features soulful Hindustani vocals layered over the gentle tunes of Niranjan Joshi's jazz piano and the beats of Ishan Jadwani's soft-jazz drum set, paired with Sayar Mitra's bass that sits at the foundation of the mix.

Niranjan Joshi plays the keyboard

Chakrvarty (below) points out how the genres, although born in lands far apart, share characteristics that allow for synergy. "They are both improvisational in nature, and complement each other well. Indian classical music is driven by melody and jazz by harmonisations which is why our compositions sound organic," the vocalist shares. Joshi, a trained jazz pianist from the Bill Evans Piano Academy in Paris, echoes the sentiment. "I believe jazz and Hindustani are essentially the same language. They both give the performer the freedom of expression that facilitates a confluence that sounds naturally harmonious," he shares.

Joshi shares a fascinating anecdote that would make jazz legend Louis Armstrong, who is famously quoted for saying "Never play the same thing the same way twice," smile down from the heavens with pride. "We were setting up the stage at a café in Sri Lanka where we were to play a jazz rendition of the classical song, Jagadhodharana when I suggested a last-minute change in the composition to the band. It played out well, but our performance ended up going overtime because of my impromptu piano solo that might have gone on for tad too long," he laughingly admits. "The band loves to improvise.
The moment we hear a bandmate play a variation, we all lock in and beyond that, our musical intuitions just take over," concludes Joshi.

On: November 8; 9.30 pm onwards
At: Bonobo, Linking Road, Bandra West
Call: 9619930030 (for reservations)